Saturday, February 15, 2014

Review #6 - Elijah Craig 12 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon

The Elijah Craig 12 Year is simply the best price for a quality bourbon whiskey that you'll find in the market, bar none. It is an absolute hidden gem. Distilled at Heaven Hill in Bardstown Kentucky yields us a great all around Bourbon. I visited Heaven Hill in October 2013 and I was floored by the enormous stock of aging Bourbon in their vast rickhouses. What I took away from that trip, aside from the amazing smell of the angel's share, was that we'll have this whiskey on the market for a very long time. And that makes me extremely happy.

The question that I keep asking myself when it comes to EC12 is how in the world does it stay on the market at such an inexpensive price point? It makes no sense in the context of the global whiskey boom where prices are being driven higher and higher. I've been able to purchase this whiskey for as low as $24 when it has been on sale. A 94 proof whiskey at under thirty dollars is a killer deal.Heaven Hill also releases various age statements of Elijah Craig in their ultra premium category such as an 18, 20 and 21 as well as a barrel proof version of the 12. However it is the standard 12 Year old that is so easily accessible and also so easily drinkable.PRODUCT SPECSWhiskey Type -BourbonAlcohol By Volume (ABV) - 47%

FINISHThe finish is a nice long slow burn. At 47% it has medium legs and is relatively viscous. The most surprising thing on the palate and finish for EC12 has an exceptional earthy flavor. It has a wonderful blend of oak and tannins that is very rich but not overly sweet like other Bourbons.FINAL IMPRESSIONSI really like Elijah Craig 12. It is one that I purchase regularly and the value that you get for the money is outrageous. This Bourbon is big and bold and will challenge you with its nose and palate so it is not for the feint of heart. That being said it is an overall great Bourbon.PRODUCT RATING 3 out of 5. You'll be able to find this Bourbon in most cases for under $30 for a 750ml bottle. If it is on sale then pick it up. You will not be disappointed.RATING SYSTEM0 - hot dog water - nothing redeeming1 - one dimensional - not complex and can be flat in areas2 - entry level whiskey - a few highlights for a good value3 - daily sipper - solid, well made product that is always enjoyed.4 - big whiskey - complex layered flavors - amazing balance5 - huge, exceptional, unique, one of a kind